Arsene Wenger is “positive” Alexis Sanchez will stay after swapping text messages with the Arsenal star, writes John Cross in Sydney.

Wenger revealed that Sanchez has left him convinced he will not quit Arsenal this summer despite the long-running contract stand-off.

Manchester City are desperate to sign Sanchez as the Chile forward has only 12 months left on his current deal and is holding out for a staggering £400,000-a-week.

But Wenger, who has given Sanchez another fortnight off, is convinced that he will remain an Arsenal player after their secret text messages since the end of the season.

Wenger has been swapping text messages with Sanchez this summer (Image: PA)

Manchester City have been linked with a move for the Chilean (Image: REUTERS)

When asked if he is now convinced he will stay, Wenger replied: “Of course. There is not a lot to resolve at the moment with the player. I have spoken through text and it was very positive. My thoughts are always positive.”

Wenger has told Sanchez and the other players involved in the Confederations Cup and Euro under-21s to report back on July 30.

But he has insisted this time that Sanchez could be ready to play in Arsenal’s opening game of the season against Leicester on August 11. Previously, Wenger has rested some players for the opening fixtures after an extended summer break.

Sanchez has a further two weeks off following his international duties (Image: 2017 Getty Images)

Wenger added: “Usually you need three weeks but they will have a programme that they have to follow and can be involved after one week to 10 days, they can be in the squad and play in part of games.

“They could be involved in the Leicester game, of course. Sometimes I have left them out but it also depends on what shape they come back in.

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“In England you also have to consider players like Alexis Sanchez played the whole season, finished the season really tired and went off to play in the Confederations Cup.

“You cannot tell them that they are not having a holiday and must come back and continue, it’s impossible.”